UEFA supporting UN global campaign for road safety
Tuesday, May 30, 2023
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Europa League and Europa Conference League finals will raise awareness of the leading worldwide cause of death for young people aged 5-29.
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UEFA will use the international appeal of its club competition finals to highlight the UN's new global campaign for road safety, which aims to halve the number of traffic deaths worldwide by 2030.
An estimated 1.35 million people die on the world's roads each year, with more than 600 children and young people losing their life in traffic accidents every day.
The new UN campaign, which is part of the Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030, is led by UN Special Envoy for Road Safety, Jean Todt, and supported by leading figures including UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin, UEFA Champions League winner Didier Drogba.
Michele Uva, UEFA Director for Social & Environmental Sustainability:
"We are pleased to join forces with the United Nations to highlight the important issue of road safety. Millions of people drive to football matches and practices across Europe and beyond each day, whether as players, coaches, volunteers, fans or parents and family supporting their children. By taking action in line with the UN’s recommendations, the football community can all help to save lives and contribute to a safer society."
Jean Todt, UN Secretary General's Special Envoy for Road Safety:
"I am happy that our friends from UEFA join the new United Nations road safety campaign. Football is an accelerator of change and a key means to reach out to young people, who unfortunately are the first victims on the roads. Through this partnership, we’ll work together to bring positive change for all road users."
UEFA and our partners will use the global visibility of our finals, which see Roma face Sevilla in the Europa League final in Budapest on 31 May, and Fiorentina meet West Ham United in the Europa Conference League final in Prague on 7 June, to raise awareness of the issue and promote road safety around the world.
Between now and 2025, the campaign will be displayed on billboards and in public areas in 1,200 towns and cities in 80 countries worldwide, encouraging road users to adopt simple and efficient rules to stay safe on the road.
Six actions that can make a difference on the road
• Speed limitation
People have a 90% chance of surviving after being hit by a car travelling at 30km/h but less than 50% at 50km/h
• Wearing a seatbelt
Reduces the risk of deaths among drivers and front seat occupants by 45-50%
• The use of child restraints
Can lead to a 60% reduction in deaths
• Correct helmet use
Can lead to a 69% reduction in the risk of injuries
• Don’t drive under influence
Alcohol or drugs increase the risk of a car crash that results in deaths or serious injuries
• Avoid distracted driving
Drivers using phones are approximately 4 times more likely to be involved in a crash
